American Icon Lost

Published: Wednesday, March 29, 2000

Lubbock lost an American icon March 12, 2000. James "Jimmy" Vickers was a man who had lived life to the fullest extent of any human I have ever had the privilege to know. Mr. Vickers was a World War II veteran, as stated in his obituary, but was much more than that. He opened the first flight instruction school in Lubbock; introduced the first Link-trainer to develop the flight skills of his students; operated a flying service which gave many residents their first experience with the thrills of aviation; and overall was a person of character and moral standing of the highest quality.

The passing of this fine gentleman leaves a void in the character of this city, and he will be missed by many persons on the great South Plains who have come in contact with him during his lifetime here.